Current Position: Chief Development Officer, Special Olympics Tennessee

Hometown: Nashville, TN

Degree: M.S. in Sport Administration, 2001

What are the responsibilities of your current position?

Oversee all areas of fundraising, including partnerships, sponsorships, special events, cause marketing, direct marketing, and special projects.

How did your education at MSU help prepare you for your field?

The experience and contacts through the MSU Sport Administration program were invaluable in my success in the sports industry. Connections with the MSU program led to positions working in professional sports, collegiate sports, and in the sports participatory event management industry.

What advice would you give to current students looking for internships or jobs in your field?

Use your networks and don’t be afraid to pick up the phone to ask people for a chance. Everyone starts their career in a similar way, and most people are hired in the sports industry through a connection or friend. Stay connected with your classmates, professors, internship coordinators, guest speakers, etc. Most people are willing to help if you ask.